VISUAL Carlow – Re-opening Animations

VISUAL is one of Ireland’s leading contemporary art spaces, situated in the heart of Carlow.

Following the national lockdowns and restrictions that dominated 2020 and 2021, VISUAL were keen to signal to the various audiences and constituencies (that had continued to engage with them online) that they were re-opening as a physical venue/destination.

A series of (typographic) animations were commissioned as part of a ‘takeover’ of VISUAL’s social media and online channels. The animations needed to peak people’s interest and suggest activity without revealing too much about the upcoming programme.

Taking the gridded motif from the building’s iconic facade, we explored the visual potential of ‘opening’ and ‘closing’ modules within the grid – turning them on (white) or off (black); making them active/passive. This approach was further developed to include dynamic visual content (type); the individual modules of the grid containing animated content that is slightly offset (out of sync). The visual interest of this simple conceit is extended through playful contrast in scale – lending the animations a cinematic quality.

It was important that the animations reflected VISUAL (as a cultural space and facilitator), as opposed to a particular curatorial theme or seasonal programme. As such, the typography (typographic choices) and monochrome colour palettes are determined by VISUAL’s core identity. These styles are consistently applied to ensure and reinforce recognition.

The animations were circulated in the run-up to and following VISUAL’s re-opening. They needed to be adaptable and extendable – allowing for the introduction of imagery and customised messaging.